1. Protect

Before stepping in, identify ongoing dangers (running machine, chemical product, traffic, electrical risk) and remove or isolate them without putting yourself at risk. If that is impossible, move the casualty only if you can do so safely.

2. Examine

Check whether the casualty is bleeding heavily, choking, responding and breathing. This quick check tells you how urgent the situation is and what to do.

3. Call for help, or have someone call

  • 15: SAMU, medical emergency.
  • 18: fire and rescue service.
  • 112: European emergency number, reachable from any phone.
  • 114: emergency text service for deaf or hard-of-hearing people.

Give the exact location, what happened, the number of casualties and their condition, then follow the operator's instructions. Only hang up when told to.

4. Give first aid

Carry out the appropriate actions until help arrives: apply pressure to severe bleeding, clear the airway, place the casualty in the recovery position, perform CPR and use a defibrillator in cardiac arrest. Stay with the casualty and monitor them.

After the emergency: formalities

  • The employee informs the employer of the accident within 24 hours, unless impossible.
  • The employer reports the accident to the primary health insurance fund (CPAM) within 48 hours, excluding Sundays and public holidays.
  • The employer gives the employee a workplace accident form.
  • The accident is recorded and the risk assessment (DUERP) is reviewed if needed.